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 Cylinder Blast Causes Fire in Sector 19:A major fire broke out at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Sunday, triggered by a cylinder explosion in Sector 19. The incident, which occurred around 4:10 pm, resulted in one injury and the destruction of 18 tents. Thick plumes of smoke spread across the area, causing panic among nearby akhadas. Authorities swiftly responded, deploying 15 fire tenders to control the blaze, which was extinguished within an hour.

Prime Minister Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath Respond
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed about the incident by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The Chief Minister visited the site and assured the Prime Minister that the fire had been quickly contained through the combined efforts of the SDRF, NDRF, and fire department teams.

Cause of the Fire Confirmed by Officials
Uttar Pradesh Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma confirmed that the fire originated in a tent due to a leaking gas cylinder during tea preparation. This initial leak led to the explosion of two additional cylinders, creating massive flames that quickly spread. Akhara Police Station In-charge Bhaskar Mishra corroborated these details, emphasizing that firefighters worked diligently to control the situation.

 Extent of Damage and Injury Reported
The fire ravaged approximately 40 straw huts and six tents at the Gita Press camp. According to an official statement, the fire began in the kitchen area of the camp during tea preparation. Jaspreet, the only individual injured in the incident, fainted while fleeing the blaze and sustained a leg injury. He was initially treated at the Maha Kumbh Mela hospital and later transferred to Swaruprani Medical College, where his condition remains stable.

 Swift Action Prevents Further Damage
Authorities credited the prompt response of the firefighting teams for preventing further damage. The incident, while alarming, highlights the importance of emergency preparedness during large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh Mela.